Redbud Seeds - Eastern

(Cercis canadensis L.) Perennial. Zones 4 - 9.

Eastern Redbud is a beautiful native tree species with a short, maroon-purple trunk and umbrella-shaped canopy that is smothered in a lavender-pink blossoms in early Spring. Eastern Redbud is easy to start from seed, and grows in the wild from the Eastern coast of Canada down to Texas.

Redbud is happy as an understory tree in part shade; out in the open, in full sun, it will grow taller and bloom more prolifically. Its copious, tight clusters of fragrant flowers attract birds, bees, and butterflies. Leaves are glossy and heart shaped. 

Belonging to the pea and bean family, the flowers resemble pea blossoms, and both flowers and tender pods are edible - enjoy them, much like peas, steamed with butter and salt. 

As the pods mature, they become brown and papery, and the seeds can be collected in Fall before they drop. 

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Cold Hardiness: Zones 4 - 9

Edible: Yes

Size: Large Tree 15-30 feet

Growth Rate: Medium to Fast

Nitrogen Fixer: No

Native Plant: Yes

Germination: 40-60 %

Sun Requirements: Full Sun to Part Shade

Soil Preference: Moist, well drained, deep sandy loam

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GROWING INSTRUCTIONS

SEED PRETREATMENT: Soak seed for 48 hours, start with hot tap water. Replace water after 24 hours. Mix seeds with a moistened grow medium equal to 3-4 times seed volume. Place in a plastic bag or container.

STRATIFICATION: 60 days cold/moist (5°C). Place plastic bag with seeds and soil in your refrigerator, preferably in a veggie crisper. Inspect periodically for moisture and early germination

POST-STRATIFICATION: Sow stratified seeds 1/4”. Seeds prefer soil temperatures between 15-21°C to germinate. Water evenly and regularly.

GERMINATION: When all previously mentioned requirements are fulfilled, germination generally occurs in 20-30 days.

How To Start Your Tree Seeds

*Excited about growing Nut Trees from seed? Learn more HERE*

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